Noshiro is a place where two local histories come together: the romantic story of Kimimachizaka and the woodworking culture that once made the city known as the “Wood Capital” of Japan.

Located in northern Akita Prefecture, Noshiro has long been connected to the forests surrounding the Yoneshiro River. In the past, valuable Akita cedar trees were cut from upstream mountain areas and transported downstream along the river flowing directly in front of Kimimachizaka Park. This timber industry supported the development of the city and became an important part of local culture.

Today, the legacy of this woodworking culture continues through traditional crafts such as kumiko woodworking using Akita cedar.

At the same time, Kimimachizaka park is also known throughout Japan as a famous romantic destination. During Emperor Meiji’s visit to the area in 1881, he received a heartfelt letter from Empress Shoken while staying here. According to local history, Emperor Meiji later gave the area the name “Kimimachizaka,” inspired by a heartfelt letter sent by Empress Shoken during his journey through the region. Because of this story, the park later became associated with romance, love letters, and matchmaking culture.

This half-day cultural experience allows visitors to enjoy both of these local stories through a relaxing guided walk, hands-on craftsmanship, and local tea.

Tour Highlights

1. Explore Kimimachizaka Park
2. Experience Kumiko Woodcraft with Akita Cedar
3. Relax with Local Hiyama Tea
4. Tour Schedule & Information

1. Explore Kimimachizaka Park

Participants will begin with a guided walk through Kimimachizaka Park while learning about the history of the area, the romantic story connected to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken, and the connection between the Yoneshiro River and Noshiro’s woodworking culture.

Visitors can enjoy the park’s seasonal scenery, which is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season in spring and the autumn foliage season. Along the way, participants will visit the Love Letter Shrine inside the park and dedicate a heart-shaped ema prayer plaque inspired by Kimimachizaka’s romantic history.

Participants will also receive a love letter-themed postcard that can be mailed from the park’s special Love Letter Postbox. Postcards sent from this postbox are delivered with a limited-edition commemorative stamp, creating a memorable keepsake from the experience.

The walking course offers a relaxing opportunity to experience both nature and local culture at a comfortable pace.

2. Experience Kumiko Woodcraft with Akita Cedar

After the guided walk, the experience continues with a kumiko woodworking workshop at the Kimi Koi Café inside the park.

Kumiko is a traditional Japanese woodworking technique that creates delicate geometric patterns without using nails. Using locally sourced Akita cedar, participants can create small handmade items such as coasters or necklaces.

Although intricate in appearance, the workshop is beginner-friendly and suitable even for first-time visitors. Finished crafts can be taken home as a special souvenir from Noshiro.

3. Relax with Local Hiyama Tea

The experience concludes with a cup of Hiyama tea, a local tea produced in northern Akita and known as one of the northernmost tea-growing areas in Japan.

This relaxing final moment offers visitors a chance to enjoy another aspect of local culture while reflecting on the history, craftsmanship, and natural beauty of Noshiro.

4. Tour Schedule & Information

Morning Tour

9:30 — Meet at JR Higashi-Noshiro Station, Futatsui Station, or on-site
10:00 — Arrive at Kimimachizaka Park and guided walk (approximately 45 minutes)
11:00 — Kumiko woodworking experienceat Kimi Koi Café
12:00 — Tour ends

Afternoon Tour

13:00 — Meet at JR Higashi-Noshiro Station, Futatsui Station, or on-site
13:30 — Arrive at Kimimachizaka Park and guided walk (approximately 45 minutes)
14:30 — Kumiko woodworking experience at Kimi Koi Café
15:30 — Tour ends

Tour Information